Miss Bumby's Mission by JM Laird

In this well-researched and charming novel, Miss Bumby’s Mission celebrates the life of Mary Bumby, who became New Zealand’s first beekeeper. In 1838, Mary decided to travel with her brother John from England. He focused on missionary work, and her job was to be his housekeeper. The long sea voyage was arduous, but Mary managed to bring two hives of bees with her that survived the journey. The reader follows her life as she forges an entirely new life for herself in this new land. There are many challenges, but there are also surprising opportunities that will change Mary’s life completely.

The author has based Miss Bumby’s Mission on Mary’s diary and accounts by others, creating a fascinating account of one of the few European women to come to New Zealand at that time. JM Laird is a hobbyist beekeeper, and her experiences bring bees and the art of beekeeping fascinatingly to life. The bees are one of the stars of this excellent story.

The other compelling aspect of Miss Bumby’s Mission is the way the lives of the early missionaries are brought to life, bringing both their passion for their cause and the deadly challenges they faced.

Miss Bumby’s Mission is a delight – it has the perfect blend of historical fact and compelling characters and plot.

Reviewer: Karen McMillan

Northern Bee Books